India to conduct double interceptor missile trial in June

New Delhi, Dec 12 (UNI) India will conduct simultaneous test of PAD and AAD missile interceptors in June 2008, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) announced today.

The double interceptor missile test would help the country attain a full ballistic missile defence within three years, capable of taking on long-range threats such as cruise missiles, Chief Controller- R and D (Missile and Strategic System), DRDO, on Ballistic Missile Defence, told a press conference.

''But before we are able to attain a full ballistic missile defence, we need more flight trials-- 3-4 trials of AAD and 4-5 trials of PAD,'' Dr V K Saraswat said.

Two flight trials of AAD were conducted on December 2 and 6, while the PAD missile technology had already been proven.

Dr Saraswat said the integrated interceptor's high velocity and manoeuverability would also ensure that it would be able to intercept aircraft at more than 80 km of range.

He said the weapon system components such as radars, thermal batteries, software and launch control centre would be manufactured indigeniously.

''It would have a wider area interception than the Patriot missile of the US.'' He said the integrated interceptor technology would lead to the development of a satellite to detect long-range missiles.

''It will be complementary to the interceptor. It will not be a spy satellite, but will carry infra-red telescope to track the plume of smoke of the target missile,'' Dr Saraswat said.

UNI